Once again we’ve rounded up a list with the best tattoos internet has ever seen to give you the ink inspiration to suit your story and style. With all those gorgeous designs out there, we know it can be tough to find the tattoo that’s perfect for you. As you already know if you’ve been reading us, we’re addicted to the needle and we love those tattoos that visually impress through design but also have a rich symbolism behind. Mandala tattoos definitely fit into this category so we decided to make a list with 50 of the most beautiful mandala tattoo designs we’ve seen and at the same time to explain the symbolism behind this sacred & timeless pattern.
What is the meaning of a mandala tattoo?
First of all, what is a Mandala? The meaning of the word mandala in Sanskrit is circle. At the most basic level, a mandala represents wholeness, unity and harmony. Many cultures since the ancient times use it as an expression of the Sacred Universe, where all life forms spiral into life like that of a Mandala.
In traditional mandalas, patterns repeat and echo in a symmetrical fashion, usually centered around a core. These patterns can be geometric, or derived from nature – flowers, sun, moon and earth are common motifs.
The Mandala can be considered a cosmic diagram reminding us of our relation with the universe, extending beyond and within our bodies and minds. The circular nature of the designs symbolizes infinity or eternity.
Each geometric figure within the mandala has symbolic significance. Circles represent different levels of the cosmos, while squares represent earthly planes. Other geometric shapes such as triangles may refer to aspirations toward the universal (when pointed upward) or toward the earthly (when pointed downward). Colors also play an important role in nuanced meanings of mandalas.
When you see the rich symbolism and intricate aesthetics of a mandala, it’s easy to fall in love and desire to get it tattooed on your body. If you consider a mandala inspired geometric pattern to take your ink to the next level, go with colors, shapes and motifs that have a special meaning to you. Many choose to incorporate their favorite colors, religious or spiritual symbols or animals, their age or other items of significance to their lives.
Mandala tattoos are extremely versatile and can carry a number of meanings that are limited only by the bearer and the observer. Many of today’s tattoo artists still pay homage to this sacred symbol but do so using modern techniques and often with contemporary twists.
If you opt for a Mandala tattoos you should also know that due to the geometric nature of these tattoos, when considering where to place it, it is important to get a place with fewer folds so as to avoid distorting the image. Also, keep in mind that your mandala tattoo will be entirely influenced by the tattoo artist you choose, so find a tattooist who will make the most of your piece.
Inspirational mandala tattoo designs to adorn your body with sacred geometry
tattoo artist © Steph Hesketh Tattoo
tattoo artist © Jimmy YuEn
tattoo artist © HΔMSTTER®
tattoo artist © K r i s t i n a E l i n
tattoo artist © Vitaliy Bezenkow
tattoo artist © VALERA RONENKO
tattoo artist © Kristi Walls NYC
tattoo artist © Ksirou Division
tattoo artist © Ashlee Saunders Tattoo
tattoo artist © Guy Le
tattoo artist © Giulia Del Bianco Tattoo
tattoo artist © AZL
tattoo artist © Ola Oleszkiewicz
tattoo artist © KENNY SANCHEZ
tattoo artist © LCjunior – Juninho
tattoo artist © Rafael Costabile
tattoo artist © Laura Weller
tattoo artist © NEENO
tattoo artist © Miryam Lumpini
tattoo artist © Dzeraldas Jerry Kudrevicius
tattoo artist © anais_chabane
tattoo artist © mikephillo_tattoo
tattoo artist © spike17tattoo
tattoo artist © Maya Mysteria Tattooartist
tattoo artist © Pmztattoo
tattoo artist © red_lenara
tattoo artist © Ashlee Saunders Tattoo
tattoo artist © Elizabeth Fryer Tattoo
tattoo artist © Laura Weller
tattoo artist © Jimmy YuEn
tattoo artist © John Roguel
tattoo artist © Kristi Walls NYC
tattoo artist © Pınar takay
tattoo artist © Israel Paketh
tattoo artist © MiL Et Une ~ Art & Tattoo
tattoo artist © Jens W
tattoo artist © Effedots
tattoo artist © Nikki Ouimette
tattoo artist © steve_fatcat_tattoo
tattoo artist © Eloise | 1891 original Tattoo co
tattoo artist © VALERA RONENKO
tattoo artist © Laura Weller
tattoo artist © GIORGIA MAE TATTOOS
tattoo artist © NEENO
tattoo artist © anais_chabane
tattoo artist © Pınar takay
tattoo artist © Laura Firth
tattoo artist © Mtl Tattoo
tattoo artist © red_lenara
tattoo artist © Ashlee Saunders Tattoo
tattoo artist © Billy Murton
tattoo artist © Rafael Costabile
tattoo artist © A L E X B A W N
tattoo artist © Kristi Walls NYC
tattoo artist © I N D I E D
tattoo artist © Carlos Cisneros
tattoo artist © Jack Peppiette
tattoo artist © Salome Trujillo
tattoo artist © red_lenara
tattoo artist © MiL Et Une ~ Art & Tattoo
tattoo artist © Dzeraldas Jerry Kudrevicius
We hope you liked our collection with some of the most beautiful mandala tattoo designs the internet has ever seen and maybe you’ve found an idea for your next tattoo. If you want more tattoo inspiration, we’re here to introduce you to a whole spectrum of ink artists from all over the world. Custom designers specializing in every style from new school ink pieces to traditional American tattoos –